Ukraine Under Threat: Is Russia Using Chemical Weapons on the Front Lines?
Recent investigations and testimonies from forensic experts suggest that Ukrainian soldiers might be exposed to dangerous chemical substances during combat.
Viktor Bachynsky, head of the Chernivtsi Regional Bureau of Forensic Medicine, stated in an interview with Suspilne that in 2025, approximately five hundred bodies of fallen Ukrainian soldiers were brought in suspected of poisoning.
While over 96% of deaths were caused by blast injuries, a significant portion of the bodies showed no external damage, raising suspicions of toxic substance involvement.Medical examiners reported multiple instances of unconsciousness during autopsies, likely due to strong toxic effects.
The use of protective gear, including gas masks, prevented further health issues, reinforcing the hypothesis that harmful chemicals are present in the tissues.
Experts believe that some bodies contain traces of toxic substances, with protective equipment having proven critical in reducing exposure risks.It is noteworthy that Russian forces on one of the most active front sections reportedly utilize chemical weapons aggressively.
According to Bachynsky, if there are no visible injuries and death occurs rapidly, it strongly suggests the use of chemical agents.
Medical personnel’s use of gas masks not only protected them but also serve as evidence of possible chemical contamination.Laboratory analyses of biological materials are ongoing, although progress is slow due to a lack of modern equipment.
A mass spectrometer could identify the suspected chemicals within an hour at a cost of around 8 million hryvnias—equipment Ukraine’s forensic labs currently lack.
Back in April 2024, the Ukrainian General Staff reported an increase in the use of chemical agents by Russia, including the deployment of grenades K-51 and RГ-VО, frequently dropped from drones.This alarming situation underscores the urgent need for heightened international monitoring of chemical weapon use and for boosting Ukrainian capabilities in detection and research to protect soldiers and civilians alike.